5 essentials for your next 3-wheel motorcycle long-distance road trip

Ride Safely with a Comfortable Helmet

The best riding helmets for a long drive should prioritize comfort, safety, and functionality. Look for a full-face or modular helmet that offers comprehensive protection and a snug fit to minimize fatigue over extended periods. Essential features include an aerodynamic design to reduce wind noise, a superior ventilation system to keep you cool, and a moisture-wicking interior for enhanced comfort.

An integrated sun visor and anti-fog visor can improve visibility in varying conditions. Additionally, helmets with Bluetooth compatibility allow for seamless communication and navigation, making them ideal for long-distance journeys on your Can-Am Spyder motorcycle.
 

Install a Windshield

While the wind under your sails can feel exciting and uplifting, there’s a good chance that you’ll be frequently travelling against the wind. This is called wind pressure, a thorn in just about every rider’s side. Forceful winds push against your vehicle and create steady resistance, which makes it difficult to ride and can cause rider fatigue.

In these instances, your best bet is to install a tall windshield. This small step will go a long way in curbing the strength of wind pressure, helping you enjoy a more relaxed ride. Plus, a windshield can provide extra protection from the elements, such as unexpected rainfall.
 

Wheel Clothing and Gear

Poor weather conditions are a fact of life and a part of every road trip. To stay shielded from unpredictable weather, pack the proper rain gear and outerwear in your vehicle’s storage compartment. This way, you’ll be more than ready to face whatever the elements have in store, from strong gales to heavy downpours. Don't forget to also pack riding clothing and gear for days when the weather is nicer and always ride in comfort!
 

Before embarking on a road trip, it's crucial to ensure your safety and the reliability of your vehicle. Here are some essential safety precautions and measures:

Maintenance and Repair

- Regular Service: Schedule regular maintenance as per the manufacturer's guidelines.
- Fluid Levels: Check and top up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and other necessary fluids.
- Battery: Make sure the battery is in good condition and fully charged.
- Lights and Signals: Verify all lights and indicators are functioning properly.

Tire Checks

- Tire Pressure: Check the tire pressure regularly and keep it within the recommended range.
- Tread Depth: Inspect the tread for wear and replace tires if they are worn out.
- Alignment: Ensure the wheels are properly aligned to avoid uneven tire wear and improve handling.

Riding Techniques for Different Road Conditions

- Wet Roads: Reduce speed, avoid sudden movements, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Gravel Roads: Slow down, keep a firm grip on the handlebars, and steer smoothly to maintain control.
- Highways: Stay visible by wearing bright clothing, use your mirrors frequently, and signal your intentions early.

No matter how intimately familiar you are with the road you’re travelling on, everyone can use a little extra help in staying oriented. This is why it’s a great idea to use a navigational tool like a GPS on your handlebar—you’ll save yourself from veering off-course or getting lost.

Louis prefers to use his phone’s GPS as it pairs easily with a Bluetooth communication system, a set-up that feeds turn-by-turn directions directly into his earpiece. When it’s not indicating which exit to take, it’s playing your favourite road trip track, so crank it loud.

Planning your route effectively is crucial for a successful 3-wheeler adventure. Start by researching road conditions along your intended route, considering factors like construction zones, weather forecasts, and potential traffic delays. Plan your fuel stops strategically, aiming for locations with accessible gas stations and amenities. Don't forget to identify rest areas along the way where you can take breaks.

Packing efficiently for a 3-wheel road trip can make a significant difference in your comfort and convenience on the road. Utilize the various storage compartments on your Can-Am Spyder to distribute weight evenly and keep essential items in easily accessible spots. The LinQ bags and cargo storage systems from Can-Am are designed to fit perfectly and securely, maximizing your storage space.

On a motorcycle journey, fuel is important—and no, we’re not just talking about what keeps your vehicle running! Among the most essential items that you should bring are enough snacks and water to last you for the duration of your trip by stocking them in a LinQ cooler. You’ll need stable energy to stay clear, focused and satisfied for a long ride.

# 5 - Comfortable Riding

For a comfortable long ride on your 3-wheeler, prioritize ergonomic seating and consider adding a backrest for optimal support and reduced fatigue during extended rides. Can-Am offers a variety of seats and backrest options designed specifically for enhancing comfort on the road and to ensure your ride is not only enjoyable but also supportive for those extended hours in the saddle.

Reminder: your long-distance trip is a journey, not a race. So if you’re out on the road and notice that you’re feeling drained or worn out, don’t forget about taking breaks—take them as often as you’d like. Some riders recommend resting at 90-minute intervals or so, but do what feels best for you.

Pit stops are a part of every big adventure. Use this downtime to fill up on gas, use the restroom, have a snack, stretch it out, clean off your windshields and, above all else, start prepping for the next chapter in the journey ahead. Including rest periods into the journey is a sure-fire way to help you stay mentally fresh and ready for wherever the road takes you next.

Preparation is Key

Preparing for a road trip on your Can-Am Spyder involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable journey. Equipping yourself with the right gear and accessories, prioritizing safety measures, planning your route efficiently, packing wisely and ensuring your comfort are all essential to the success of a long-distance adventure.